Abrolhos Archipelago, Marine national park in southern Bahia, Brazil
Abrolhos Archipelago is an island group in southern Bahia featuring five islands spread across a large marine area, with extensive coral reefs and diverse ocean habitats. The waters here support rich marine life across different depths and zones.
The archipelago was charted by Portuguese explorer Amerigo Vespucci in 1503, who named it to alert sailors about dangerous reefs in the area. This early documentation made the islands notable on European navigation maps.
Fishing communities in the region have kept their traditional ways alive, working the waters around these islands as part of their daily life. The connection between people and the sea remains strong and visible in how the place is used today.
Access to most islands is restricted and requires guided tours, with some areas off-limits due to military presence or conservation rules. It is best to arrange a boat trip in advance and check current access rules before planning your visit.
Humpback whales migrate to these waters between July and October to breed and raise their young in the shallow zones around the islands. This seasonal arrival transforms the area into one of South America's primary whale-watching destinations.
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